The Sun on Earth

Directed by

Jacques Bedel

Written by

Jacques Bedel

Produced by

Saint Thomas Productions, ARTE France, Discovery Communications Inc

Documentary, France, 2009, 52 min

As reserves of fossil fuels on the planet are almost exhausted, our energy consumption is increasing. Renewable energies alone will not suffice to cover our needs. We only know the dark side of nuclear energy, often associated with fission and its dangers, but beyond political boundaries, scientists worldwide are trying to exploit his light side. Nuclear fusion is a source of energy that is powerful, clean and safe. But it is incredibly difficult to master.

Several experimental methods are developed. The three main routes in competition are:
- tokamaks that confine the plasma in a magnetic chamber at a temperature of one hundred million degrees;
- lasers that are used as hammers to compress a target and detonate;
- the Z-pinch that lights the fire nuclear squeezing a ball of gas with strong electromagnetic fields.

Beyond the rivalry, all scientists share their knowledge on the plasma, the fourth state of matter after the gas phase. Only the control of plasma will open the doors of the merger.

Debate with :

• Jacques Bedel, director
• Annie-Laure Pecquet, Research Institute on magnetic fusion - CEA